Hogno Khan & Karakorum

- and Erdenezuu monastery -

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Karakorum - or Harhorin - was the ancient capital in the time of the Mongol empire during the 13-14th centuries.  It was totally sacked by the Chinese Ming dynasty warriors during the overthrow of Khubilai Khan, the Mongol emperor of China.  Little remain, but the site is situated in a very scenic area.  During the 16th century the giant Erdenezuu monastery was built from the remains of Karakorum.  Erdenezuu was closed for many years, but after the democratic reforms in 1991, monks are again living there.

Brief Outline Itinerary

We will journey by bus or jeep 400 km to the west of Ulan Bator into the Övörhangai province and visit Karakorum and Erdenezuu. We will overnight in a permanent ger camp at 80 km short from Karakorum, at the Hogno Khan Mountain. It is a unique rock formation, situated on the arid steppes. In the mountain itself, is the Erdene Khombo monastery, now is being restored. And it’s the ruins of Uvgun monastery is hidden in a valley in the middle.

Day 01. Arrive Ulaanbaatar

Arrive the Mongolian capital by air or by train. Transfer to your hotel. If you arrive in time, some sightseeing can be done in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 02. To Hogno Khan Mountain

Depart in the morning by bus or car for the Hogno Khan Uul area.  We will travel on one of Mongolia's few tarmac roads.  There will be steppe landscape all the way, and upon reaching the Hogno Khan Mountain area we will see Mongol Els sand dunes in the middle of the steppes.  They are locally known as "Little Gobi" or “Elsen Tasarkhai” as well. Next to them there is a small lake where waders such as herons and ducks may be seen in the summer. Overnight in gers.

Day 03. Hogno Khan Mountain

The Hogno Khan Mountain is a giant rock formation in the middle of the steppes, and in it is the small Erdene Khombo monastery, now being restored. It was destroyed during the purges of the 1930s.   An interesting countryside area where many nomadic herdsmen live surrounds it.  We will explore the area today.

Day 04.  Erdenezuu & Karakorum

Full day excursion to Harhorin. We will drive 80km, which is 2 hours, to Harhorin.  Erdenezuu Hiid is nowadays a functioning monastery in constant renovation to its former splendor. 

Once, 1000 monks used to inhabit Erdenezuu.  It had some 100 temples within its 400 by 400 meters long walls.  The monastery was sacked during the purges of 1937. Only the walls and 3 temples remain.  Erdenezuu is still one of the most fascinating sites of Mongolia, and usually we will be able to experience and see the prayers. Return to camp and overnight in gers.

Day 05.  Return to Ulaanbaatar

Drive back to Ulaanbaatar. Picnic lunch en route.  Overnight in a hotel in Ulaanbaatar.

Day 06.  Departure

After breakfast transfer to the airport or the train station for your next destination.

Practicalities

PRICE ex Ulaanbaatar

USD 550  per person; 4-6p
USD 650  per person; 2-3p

Single room supplement:  USD 35.
Private ger supplement:  USD 70.
Gers normally have 3-4 beds in each.

DATES ex Ulaanbaatar

Daily year round.
Group discounts available on request.

Includes:Local guide, all meals outside Ulaanbaatar. Overnights in Ulaanbaatar hotel incl. breakfast in shared double. All transport and entrance fees. 

Excludes:Imported drinks. Air or train tickets. Single room supplement is USD 20 per night.

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